Wheels Set In Motion for Next Big Street Project

Take a good look at Grand Avenue because this time next year it will look completely different. That’s what Mt. Pleasant Council member Stan Curtis who chairs the street committee, said last night. The city council held a public hearing during the regular meeting last night regarding the next major capital improvement project that will change Grand Avenue from old highway into an urban byway. There was public concern about access to businesses along Grand during construction. The mayor promised the frontage road on the east side of the street will remain open. The engineer said the work will be done in sections and there will always be two intersections open. A citizen asked about sidewalks. There will be sidewalks on both sides from Mapleleaf to Baker. The east side will be as wide as a bike trail. Concerns about the flashing light at the Winfield Avenue intersection will be discussed. The council wants to look carefully at better traffic control devices to enhance safety at all the involved intersections. The project will be let for bids by the DOT in Ames on Dec. 18. Work should start in February and be complete before Old Threshers. The project involves a tear out of the old pavement, lots of regarding, new storm sewer, curb and gutter an new lights from the railroad over pass to James Avenue.